The General Assembly advanced Bill A5728 on Dec. 8, which would establish the New Jersey Innovation Authority (the Authority), a centralized body that would oversee the advancement and implementation of digital technologies across state government and spur innovation in the Garden State.
Sponsored by Assemblymen Chris Tully and William F. Moen Jr., and Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin, the legislation would establish the Authority to serve as the state’s primary entity for technology innovation.
“This is about building the infrastructure for long-term economic growth through cutting-edge technology,” said Assemblyman Tully (D-Bergen). “We’re laying the foundation for a smarter, more connected New Jersey that embraces innovation not just in words but through bold, structured investment.”
In 2018, the New Jersey Office of Innovation was founded to improve the lives of New Jerseyans by designing and deploying more efficient government services. One of its key achievements was helping residents navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Office developed tools to help residents in finding job training programs, getting vaccine appointments and signing up for business grants.
Building on the successes of these efforts, this bill would codify the Office as the New Jersey Innovation Authority, to engage in various research efforts, modernize, improve, facilitate and streamline government service to individuals and businesses.
“As New Jersey continues to position itself as a leader in innovation, the Office of Innovation has played a key role in developing technologies that help startups and other emerging companies grow,” said Assemblyman Moen (D-Camden, Gloucester).
“Codifying the office into the New Jersey Innovation Authority would ensure its continuation into the future while bolstering the impact it can have on businesses throughout the state.”
“New Jersey residents deserve a government that moves at the speed of their lives,” said Assemblywoman Marin (D-Essex, Hudson). “Establishing the Authority will help us modernize outdated systems, streamline services, increase accessibility and deliver a more responsive, user-centered government for everyone who calls the Garden State home.”
Under the bill, the 13-member Authority will include nine public members with expertise in key fields such as data science, digital product development, public engagement and the delivery of digital services.
The governor would appoint the chair from among the public members, and the Authority will be led on a day-to-day basis by the state’s chief innovation officer, who will serve as the Authority’s chief executive officer.
